Information for Job Seekers

WorkSource partners are equal opportunity employers and providers of employment and
training services. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for persons
with disabilities. Washington Telecommunications Relay 711.

Services

The Shoreline Community College WorkSource Connection/Job Connections Center is available
to students and the community. In partnership with Shoreline’s Jobs & Career Services,
our facility gives job seekers access to resources for seeking and obtaining employment.
Job seekers are welcome to make an appointment with the Workforce Career Navigator
for assistance with job search, resumes, cover letters, and interview skills. We have
an on-site Employment Security Department (ESD) representative who can assist in answering
Unemployment Insurance related questions, as well as limited assistance with resumes
and cover letters. Please contact our office directly at 206-546-5882 for more information about the services offered at our site, or to schedule an appointment
with the ESD representative or Career Navigator.

Job Searching

Finding a great job is possible, but it does require putting in the work and effort
to make it happen. By utilizing several of the job search methods listed below, you
will likely increase your chances of gaining employment. And for even more ideas and
resources on job searching, please visit the Seattle-King County WorkSource site.

College Job Board

Follow this link to Shoreline Community College’s online job board that includes job
opportunities unique to our Shoreline Community College’s student, alumni, and community
members.

Networking

This is the most effective way of finding a job. Seventy-five percent of job openings
are not advertised - most employers post internally first or hire friends/acquaintances
of the people who work for them. Networking is a term that simply means asking people
you know about job opportunities that they are aware of. You may be surprised what
opportunities this can lead to.

Job Search Websites

There are several websites where you can search for job openings and/or post your
resume, and there are many reasons to use them. They can be accessed 24 hours a day,
7 days a week, they have updated real-time information and they may be linked directly
to a company site. They can also demonstrate to an employer your ability to use the
Internet successfully. We also recommend going directly to the websites of the companies
you are interested in working for and check back frequently as new jobs are often
posted frequently.

Social Media

Social media, including sites like LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook, can help you find
a job, network, and connect with people who can assist you with your career. Be sure
to use resources responsibly and keep your accounts professional.

Informational Interviewing

Get to know people in your industry through informational interviewing. In an informational
interview, you have the opportunity to gather information about the occupation and
company directly from the source. You ask the questions! There are several reasons
why this method is so important: you can get some great advice and career information;
you can impress an employer by taking an active approach in your job search — and
you might be remembered when a position does come available in that company; you might
be referred to another employer who is hiring; and you get to practice your interviewing
skills. Call or write to make a 15-20 minute appointment either in person or over
the phone. Be sure to talk with the right person (not someone in Human Resources).

Classified Advertisements

Check the help-wanted sections of large and small newspapers. Although this is not
the most effective method, it still should be used in your job search. Many larger
newspapers also post their want ads on line.

Placement Agencies

Placement agencies can offer temporary, temporary to hire, and permanent positions. The
premise for these agencies is that a company will "hire" the agency to find an employee
to fit their needs. Some agencies charge a fee to the applicant, but the majority
charge the employing company. Some are general and others have industry specialties,
such as information technology, etc.

Employment Agencies

There are state-supported agencies that offer assistance with job leads, job searching,
resume writing, and more. The Employment Security Department provides this assistance
to Washington state residents. They are located in the WorkSource centers around the
state. You can access job listings and find your local WorkSource on their Seattle-King County WorkSource website.

Professional Associations

Most professions have an association with scheduled meetings, where members gather
to discuss current issues and trends, and trade information about open positions.
For a list of associations, look up the National Trade and Professional Associations
of the United States at your local library. Attend a meeting and connect with people
in your field.

Career Planning

There are many free websites that offer resources for career planning, interest assessments,
labor market information and more: